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Happy Canyon Vineyard Blog

Sean D. Pitts
 
April 26, 2024 | Sean D. Pitts

Happy Canyon Vineyard 2024

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Winery News: January, 2024

 

Happy New Years! Embracing Evolution

As I have been preparing for the year ahead, I found myself reading a very thorough article on the wine industry and AI.  I quickly became consumed, overwhelmed, and often confused at the prospect of artificial intelligence being a part of what I do.  Can AI help with viticulture? Yes, I think to some degree.  Can AI replace winemaking? No, I don’t think so, however, it may be able to help make our wines better.  Can AI accomplish our sales and marketing?  I certainly hope it can help us get our message out and lead more people to enjoy our beautiful wines.  However, even with all these benefits, it is clear to me, AI cannot replace what we do.  It will never replace the experience of this place.  A place where you can bring your friends, your family, your loved ones to share a storied bottle of wine creating memories that will last a lifetime. Come see the vines, touch the dirt and the rocks; taste the grapes off the vine. Smell the fields that have been freshly cut, hear the horses’ hooves pounding on the field and feel a sense of peace and quiet in this valley. Our wines have a deeper meaning and a special purpose. So go ahead and purchase a beautiful bottle of Piocho or Barrack Family Estate wine and call your friends, family, and loved ones to the table. Enjoy, blossom, and go be awesome today! We have a lot of great current release and new wines for you to enjoy. If you would like to stay and really experience the magic of this place, we now offer farms stays we you can truly experience the magic of this place. Check it all out below.

Visit Us

Scenes from Happy Canyon Vineyard. Plan your vist!

Come stay with us at our Ranch and Vineyard in Santa Ynez, CA.

Book a Farm Stay on our Vineyard
Scenes from Happy Canyon Vineyard. Plan your vist!

Visit our tasting room in the heart of Santa Barbara, where you'll find a selection of our latest releases to be enjoyed as a tasting flight or by the glass, we also offer wine and artisanal chocolate pairing flights.  

Book a Wine Tasting in Santa Barbara
Scenes from Happy Canyon Vineyard. Plan your vist!

For a unique and special experience, we offer private tastings by appointment at our ranch and vineyard in Santa Ynez.

Reserve a Wine Experience on our Vineyard

Can't Make it in Person? Shop Online!

If you are unable to get to our location any time soon, remember that all of our current release wines are available for purchase on our website.

Shop for Wine

Host Your Next Event

Are you planning a special event?  Host your event at our Santa Barbara tasting rooom or at our vineyard and ranch in Santa Ynez.  Get in touch to find about our venues and facilities.  You can e mail us at info@happycanyonvineyard.com or call: (805) 203-0749

Find Out More

Let us embrace what AI can do for us, but remember, what we do can not be replaced.  It's about family, togetherness, love, and sharing a beatiful bottle of wine creating memories that will last a lifetime.   

Happy New Year and go be awesome today!

Sean D. Pitts
Executive Winemaker

Time Posted: Apr 26, 2024 at 10:39 AM Permalink to Happy Canyon Vineyard 2024 Permalink
Sean D. Pitts
 
August 16, 2023 | Sean D. Pitts

Summer 2023

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Winery News: July, 2023

 

Warm Summers and Vibrant Vineyards

As the cooler spring of 2023 has transitioned into summer, the days have been filled with the warmth of the Southern California sun.  The wet winter along with the sunshine has created a vibrancy in our vineyards as our vines are comforted by the plentiful water and the blanket of the sun.  As I eagerly await the beautiful fruit that is sure to come during harvest season, I’m reflecting on all the gifts we have been blessed with this summer.  The polo ponies galloping in the fields awaiting their next game keep me energized and excited to watch the polo play that has highlighted our summer.  Watching my kids jump into our reservoir on these hot days reminds me of the blessings of what feels like the long forgotten wet winter that was only a few months in the past.  All of this is just a highlight of what represents the best time to come visit.  Now is the time and we would love to see you.  See below for all the wonderful ways to come visit and don’t forget to pick up some Piocho Sauvignon Blanc as it will keep you refreshed on these hot summer days.  Enjoy the summer!

Visit Our Estate at Piocho Ranch

We'd love to see you! Our beautiful, one-of-kind estate in Santa Ynez is available for you to visit.  We take a limited number of visitors by reservation only, so make sure you book in advance. 

Private Vineyard Wine Experience

Scenes from Happy Canyon Vineyard. Plan your vist!

7 days a week by appointment only: For a truly special experience, we offer private, by appointment only wine tasting experiences at our ranch and vineyard.  We provide a customized 75-90 minute experience for up to 10 people that includes a vineyard walking tour and overview followed by a tasting of six wines paired with elegant appetizers.

Request a Vineyard Experience

Piocho Experience Farm Stay

 

Scenes from Happy Canyon Vineyard. Plan your vist!

Our wine club members can now enjoy a one of a kind “Piocho Experience Farm Stay.”  Come stay with us at our Ranch and Vineyard in Santa Ynez, CA.  

 

THE PIOCHO EXPERIENCE INCLUDES

  • Overnight stays in one of our elegant cottages or vineyard house

  • A vineyard and wine experience can be scheduled as part of your stay

Book the Piocho Experience Farm Stay

Featured Wine

2022 PIOCHO SAUVIGNON BLANC

A perfect wine for a sunny summer beach day or to refresh from the hot summer heat. The finished wine exhibits aromas of juicy fruit, lime zest, baked candied grapefruit with hints of fig and vanilla. The wine is bright and tight with luxurious and harmonious persistence. The ripe rich Semillon complements the tight structure of Sauvignon Blanc. In the mouth the wine portrays the minerality of our soils with rich fruit balanced by tart crisp acidity..

Purchase
Shop All Wines

We hope to see you soon!

Sean D. Pitts
Executive Winemaker

Time Posted: Aug 16, 2023 at 11:27 AM Permalink to Summer 2023 Permalink
Sean D. Pitts
 
September 13, 2022 | Sean D. Pitts

2022 Harvest Update from Happy Canyon Vineyard

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Winery News: September, 2022

 

2022 Harvest Season Is Here

2022 Harvest is upon us. In the midst of one of the hottest and longest heat waves on the central coast of California, the vineyard is looking great.  Our vineyards are mature, our grape varietals are robust, and we constantly and consistently prepare for these moments.  Even on the hottest days, we work late into the night and early in the morning to prepare our vines.  We give them water when they need it and love when they want it.  Farming is most often about preparation rather than reaction.  Therefore, we choose to work instead of worry. This work brings joy, even when it’s difficult.

For us, while harvest is hard work, it’s more about why we do what we do, rather than simply what we do.  It’s about creating a legacy over time that represents our family.  We started our harvest year picking our Sauvignon Blanc fruit from “Davey’s Block”.  This fruit is aptly named after our son whose spirit matches the qualities of these vines. Like our son, the fruit is sensitive, yet full of energy and fun.  In the coming days we will pick “Gracie’s Clone” Cabernet Franc.  This one-of-a-kind clone is spicy, vervey and beautiful like our daughter.  There is no better representation of who we are.  We are a family, and our aim is to spread this sentiment to the world.

Visit Our Tasting Room

Scenes from Happy Canyon Vineyard. Plan your vist!

Visit our tasting room in the heart of Santa Barbara, where you'll find a selection of our latest releases to be enjoyed as a tasting flight or by the glass, we also offer wine and artisanal chocolate pairing flights.  For a unique and special experience, we offer private tastings by appointment at our ranch and vineyard in Santa Ynez.

Book a Tasting

Can't Make it in Person? Shop Online!

If you are unable to get to our location any time soon, remember that all of our current release wines are available for purchase on our website.

Shop for Wine

Host Your Next Event

Are you planning a special event?  Host your event at our Santa Barbara tasting room or at our vineyard and ranch in Santa Ynez.  Get in touch to find about our venues and facilities.  You can e mail us at info@happycanyonvineyard.com or call: (805) 203-0749

Find Out More

Despite the record setting heat, the 2022 harvest is going according to our plan. Struggle not only makes us stronger, it makes our wines better.  While yields are low, concentration, complexity and character are the result.  The 2022 wines are stacking up to be aromatically beautiful and rich with flavor.

Happy Harvest and go be awesome today!

Sean D. Pitts
Executive Winemaker

Time Posted: Sep 13, 2022 at 1:34 PM Permalink to 2022 Harvest Update from Happy Canyon Vineyard Permalink
Sean D. Pitts
 
May 16, 2022 | Sean D. Pitts

Happy Canyon Vineyard presents the 10th annual Santa Ynez Valley Polo Classic

July 9, 2022

10:30am till 3:30pm

Piocho Ranch, Happy Canyon Vineyard
Santa Ynez, CA


Wine Club Members and your guests, please join us

Wine Club Members (Max of two tickets per member): $95 per person

Guest of Wine Club Members: $105 per person

Children under 12 are FREE!

PURCHASE TICKETS

FULL EVENT DETAILS BELOW



EVENT TICKET INCLUDES:

  • Parking
  • Reserved Tented Seating
  • California inspired Argentine BBQ lunch (Vegetarian options available)
  • Selection of Happy Canyon Vineyard Wines
  • Local Beer
  • Water & Soft Drinks
  • 3 Polo Matches
  • Half Time Divot Stump during the Feature Polo Match
  • Hat Contest
  • Kids tent.

EVENT TIME

July 9, 2022, 10:30 AM - 3:30 PM (Gates open at 10:30 AM, there is no early admittance)

EVENT LOCATION

Happy Canyon Vineyard at Piocho Ranch.  1100 Secretariate Road, Santa Ynez, CA 93460.

OVERVIEW

By bringing world-class polo to the Santa Ynez Valley, the Happy Canyon Vineyard presents the SYV Polo Classic.  The mission is to raise much-needed funds for People Helping People’s programs, which are dedicated to improving the lives of adults and children in the Santa Ynez Valley and Los Alamos by addressing emergency and basic needs.

WINE CLUB VENUE

We offer shaded seating with perfect viewing for the Polo matches.

EVENT SCHEDULE

  • 10:15 A.M. | Wine Club Gates Open
  • 10:30 A.M. | JUNIOR POLO MATCH 
  • 11:15 A.M. | WOMENS POLO MATCH
  • 12:15 P.M. | CA style Argentine BBQ Luncheon paired with Happy Canyon Vineyard Wines
  • 1:15 P.M. | Parade of Players, Flag Presentation by Sherriff's Mounted Unit and National Anthem
  • 1:30 P.M. | FEATURE POLO MATCH 
  • 1:45 P.M. | 1st Intermission and Divot Stomp
  • 2:15 P.M. | 2nd Intermission and Hat Contest Winners Announced/Silent Auction Closes
  • 2:45 P.M. | Conclusion of Feature Match
  • 3:00 P.M. | Presentation of Awards

THE MATCHES

The SYV Polo Classic will feature three matches: A preliminary match of junior players, a women's match, and a post-lunch game featuring high goal professionals with an intermission divot stomp.

AWARDS CEREMONY

At the conclusion of the featured match, an awards ceremony is conducted at midfield for guests to safely gather, mingle with the players, and view the presentations of the Perpetual Winner’s Trophy, Carlos Gracida Sportsmanship Award, Most Valuable Player, Best Playing String of Ponies, and Best Playing Pony.

HAT CONTEST

Guests are invited to dress for a hat contest with fabulous gift baskets for the winners. 

ATTIRE

Guests are encouraged to dress for the day! There is a hat contest in each ticket section with fabulous gift baskets for winners. Weather varies but high temperatures are expected. To access current weather at event: www.weather.com and use zip code 93460. Sunscreen, hats and light-weight clothing are recommended. Guests are encouraged to wear comfortable shoes (flats, sandals or wedges for women) as there is a 5 minute walk to and from event parking. There is cart transportation for the mobility-impaired.

**** Please, no outside alcohol and no pets (with the exception of service animals) are allowed. ****

DONATE TODAY 

Our needs have multiplied many times over as a result of COVID-19’s economic impact. This signature event is our banner fundraiser and your support ensures we can help local families in need year-round. Please consider adding a special donation to your ticket purchase.

MAIL A DONATION

If you would like to mail a donation, please make a check payable to "Santa Ynez Valley People Helping People" and send it to P.O. Box 1478, Solvang, CA 93464

Time Posted: May 16, 2022 at 4:50 PM Permalink to Happy Canyon Vineyard presents the 10th annual Santa Ynez Valley Polo Classic Permalink
Sean D. Pitts
 
January 12, 2022 | Sean D. Pitts

Happy New Year - 2022

The 2021 harvest brought huge yields with high quality fruit coming from the vineyard.  As is our preferred style, the vintage was restrained with lower sugars and higher acids, resulting in wines that will truly take on a classic sensibility. The Bordelaise feel of the 2021 vintage is sure to shine through, with structured yet soft tannins, earthy tones, bright acidity and low alcohol wines.  I am beyond excited to see how these wines age and evolve in the barrel.  

As we look forward to the year ahead, I’m excited to release the 2021 Piocho Rosé and the 2021 Piocho Sauvignon Blanc in early February.  The Block 11 Cabernet Franc remains true to its veracity and provided us with plentiful fruit, resulting in a Rosé wine that is as breathtaking and beautiful as any previous vintage.  Our Block 5 Sauvignon Blanc Vineyard, known as “Davey’s” block once again has produced rock star fruit, with bright varietal characteristics, yet also supple, round and magical.  Going forward in the year, we look forward to continuing our wine club gatherings at the tasting room, having our annual Polo Classic event in July, and enjoying wines with our community. 

Here’s to good health, good friendships and great wine.  Let’s all go be awesome in 2022!

Sean D. Pitts

Executive Winemaker

Time Posted: Jan 12, 2022 at 11:48 AM Permalink to Happy New Year - 2022 Permalink
Sean D. Pitts
 
August 18, 2021 | Sean D. Pitts

9th Annual SYV Polo Classic

Happy Canyon Vineyard presents the 9th Annual Santa Ynez Polo Classic.  Benefiting Santa Ynez People Helping People.  October 2nd, 2021.

Tickets on sale now for all wine club members

We look forward to hosting another great event for our wine club members.

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CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION

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Time Posted: Aug 18, 2021 at 11:58 AM Permalink to 9th Annual SYV Polo Classic Permalink
Sean D. Pitts
 
February 10, 2021 | Sean D. Pitts

2017 Barrack Family Estate Ten-Goal

2017 BARRACK FAMILY ESTATE TEN~GOAL
CABERNET SAUVIGNON


Click video link below for virtual tasting experience with Executive Winemaker, Sean Pitts. 

The 2017 Barrack Family Estate Ten~Goal is our luxury Cabernet Sauvignon from Block 8 “Jodi’s Block”.  This is a truly special vineyard; head trained vines produced from cuttings of the legendary To-Kalon vineyard in Napa valley.  The vines are planted to a steep southwest facing hillside.  Due to the steepness of the slope the vineyard is entirely hand done and the terrain has been untouched by machine.  

Wine Enthusiast rated this wine 93 points, stating: "This is an extremely structural wine, starting with aromas of blackberry, cedar, black olive and black pepper. The dark-fruit flavors meet with cedar spice on the palate, where the tannins and acidity will smooth out and reveal more character with time."

LOCAL PICK-UP AVAILABLE
805-203-0749, Option 3

 
 

2017 BARRACK FAMILY ESTATE TEN~GOAL
93 POINTS, WINE ENTHUSIAST 

Current Offering: $89.00
Wine Club: $75.65

Click here to learn about or join our wine club



HappyCanyonVineyard.com

805-203-0749  |  info@happycanyonvineyard.com

Time Posted: Feb 10, 2021 at 2:07 PM Permalink to 2017 Barrack Family Estate Ten-Goal Permalink Comments for 2017 Barrack Family Estate Ten-Goal Comments (3082)
Sean D. Pitts
 
January 18, 2021 | Sean D. Pitts

Happy Canyon Vineyards - Happy New Year 2021

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Our Happy Canyon Vineyard Tasting Room may not be 
hosting wine tastings, but we are here to serve you.


Click on the video below to see a New Year message and update from Executive Winemaker Sean D. Pitts.  Unfortunately, our in-person wine tastings are currently unavailable due to the COVID-19 Pandemic surge in southern California.  However, we remain committed to excellence and serving our customers.

We are offering private and group live virtual tastings.  We are flexible in our offerings and would love to host you.  Contact us for details and we will be happy to put together something that works best for you. 

Our Tasting Room is still available for wine pick-up and curb side delivery! 30 El Paseo, Santa Barbara, CA 93101.

We are open Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday under modified hours.  Click here to see details.

Please call: 805-203-0749, Option 3 or email: info@happycanyonvineyard.com


2021 NEW YEARS PROMOTIONS STARTS TODAY

- 10% Off All Wines -
- Up to 30% Off for Wine Club -
- Shipping included on 6 bottles or more -



HappyCanyonVineyard.com

805-203-0749  |  info@happycanyonvineyard.com

Time Posted: Jan 18, 2021 at 1:59 PM Permalink to Happy Canyon Vineyards - Happy New Year 2021 Permalink
Sean D. Pitts
 
May 11, 2020 | Sean D. Pitts

2019 Happy Canyon Vineyard Piocho Sauvignon Blanc Virtual Wine Tasting and Food Pairing

2019 Piocho Sauvignon Blanc, Happy Canyon Vineyard. Virtual Wine Tasting and with Executive Winemaker Sean Pitts and food pairing with Jodi Pitts. The bright and crisp Sauvignon Blanc blended with the ripe, rich Sémillon pairs wonderfully with the spicy salmon roll. Find the recipe at this link: https://www.delish.com/cooking/recipe-ideas/a26950912/spicy-salmon-bowl-recipe/

Time Posted: May 11, 2020 at 2:53 PM Permalink to 2019 Happy Canyon Vineyard Piocho Sauvignon Blanc Virtual Wine Tasting and Food Pairing Permalink Comments for 2019 Happy Canyon Vineyard Piocho Sauvignon Blanc Virtual Wine Tasting and Food Pairing Comments (1592)
Sean D. Pitts
 
May 5, 2020 | Sean D. Pitts

Hugs, Handshakes and High Fives

Although we can't hug, handshake or high-five you in person, we wanted to show you our love in a different way. Click on the video above to see how we are going through our daily life.  The video also includes a look at the current state of our beautiful vineyards.  We made this video as a virtual hug, handshake, and high-five.  Enjoy!

Time Posted: May 5, 2020 at 12:15 PM Permalink to Hugs, Handshakes and High Fives Permalink Comments for Hugs, Handshakes and High Fives Comments (5312)